Rising Rents and COVID Aid Cuts Drive Record High Homelessness in America

The number of homeless people in the United States has reached a record high, increasing by 12% in the past year, according to the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Rising rents and the end of pandemic aid programs have contributed to the surge, with over 653,000 people experiencing homelessness. The increase is particularly notable among families with children, veterans, and Asian and Hispanic/Latino individuals. Experts attribute the rise to a shortage of affordable housing, high housing costs, and the impact of migrants in many U.S. cities. Housing and Urban Development Secretary Marcia Fudge emphasized the need for urgent support and prevention strategies to address the issue.